Hepatitis C affects the liver. It’s an infection that causes liver inflammation. Chronic hepatitis C can be extremely detrimental to the body, damaging not just the liver but also other organs. Let us take a look at some of the complications arising from hepatitis C.

1 . Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis of the liver is defined as the scarring of liver tissues or complete liver failure. This can also occur due to chronic hepatitis C infection. This kind of damage to the liver is not reversible and may even be life-threatening. It is recommended to oneself checked as soon as they notice the symptoms of hepatitis C.

2. Liver failure
Liver failure is another common complication arising from hepatitis C infection. Even though this rarely occurs and in extremely severe conditions, if the liver fails or stops functioning, the body will shut down eventually. It is crucial to get the liver checked regularly.

3. Kidney disorders
Kidney disorders like inflammation of the kidney are one of the most common complications arising from hepatitis C. In this disorder, the kidney releases too much fluid and waste from the body, as the filters of the organ are generally affected.

This kind of inflammation is known as glomerulonephritis and is a type of immune disorder. Chronic hepatitis can severely damage the proper functioning of the kidneys. However, this condition is treatable.

4. Blood-related complications
Due to chronic hepatitis C, it is common for the person to develop a blood-related disorder known as cryoglobulinemia. In this condition, a certain kind of protein in the blood binds together and causes a blockage, obstructing the flow of blood, oxygen, and nutrients to those areas.

These proteins can exist in the body under normal circumstances, causing no harm. But due to hepatitis, their nature changes and causes obstruction. It is a treatable condition.

5. Brain function damage
Severe and chronic hepatitis C is also capable of causing damage to the brain. Over the long term, brain functioning might get affected due to hepatitis. This affects one’s thinking, concentration, decision-making abilities and even alters their personality. Damage to brain functioning due to liver injury is known as hepatic encephalopathy. This condition can exacerbate one’s chances of slipping into a coma.

6. Increase in local blood pressure
Due to the infected and inflamed liver, a crucial vein called the portal venous vein is blocked. Blood from various organs accumulates here to be taken to the liver. But if this vein is blocked because of the damaged or inflamed liver, the blood pressure in the area increases. This increased pressure causes inflammation or enlargement of veins in other regions such as the abdomen, esophagus, or rectum. It can be life-threatening if not treated on time.